Seating

Staff -- Interior Design, 5/31/2011 12:21:00 PM

Studio Lawrence

Designed by architects Patrick de Louwere and Bart Eijking, Wonky appears, at first glance, to be an ordinary side chair. But closer inspection reveals that the spray-painted oak-veneer seats are cut asymmetrically into five subtly distinct shapes; made in black or white, they can be set against steel frames powdercoated black or white, creating 20 variations in all. Wool felt cushions are available, as are custom colors. 44-20-83542667; studiolawrence.com. 

 

VS

Although conceived for schoolchildren, the Hokki stool has proved equally appealing to adults. Made from sturdy, scratch-resistant polypropylene, the stool features a slightly concave seat filled with soft plastic foam for added comfort. A wavy seat edge allows for easy carrying and stacking, while the 360-degree movement of the convex base, with thermoplastic padding, allows the occupant to gently rock. Available in heights from 12 to 20 inches and in five hues. 704-378-6500; vsfurniture.com.

 

Samoa Design

By Francesc Rifé, the Lyn chair has a smart profile with sexy peekaboo cutouts. Made of polyethylene and steel powdercoated either black or white, it's part of a five-piece collection. 34-96-1442477; samoadesign.com.

 

Intérieurs

Paola Navone's suitably named Hard & Soft sofa has downy cushions that invite lounging about and a frame that guarantees firm support. This perfect combination can be upholstered in leather or suede. Vital stats: 87 inches long, 47 deep, and 27 high. 212-343-0800; interieurs.com.

 

Vial

German talent Patrick Frey has devised a simple solution for portable, comfortable seating. Weighing under four pounds, the Fida folding mat was created with easy-to-use fasteners that can connect two corners, forming a triangular backrest. Upholstered in water-repellent Cordura in light blue/gray, red/gray, and black/gray colorways, the mat measures 68 inches long, 46 inches wide, and ²/5 inch thick. 49-24-146367150; vial.com. 

 

Loll Designs

The sporty Racer lounge chair by Eric Pfeiffer boasts not only good looks but also green cred. It's made in the USA of 100 percent postconsumer-recycled high-density polyethylene. Bonus: There's a table surface for drinks and rear storage. 877-740-3387; lolldesigns.com. 

 

Ligne Roset

Erwan and Ronan Bouroullec exploited high-tech manufacturing techniques to create their Ploum sofa. Ultracomfortable high-density polyurethane foam-covered in stretchy double-layer quilted polyester and wool-is supported by a frame of steel tubing, wire, and mesh. 800-297-6738; ligne-roset-usa.com.

 

Wexler Gallery

Designed by New Hampshire-based artist Vivian Beer, Anchored Candy No. 1 is museum-worthy. Formed from a calligraphic swoop of steel, the one-of-a-kind seat is treated to automotive paint and measures 52 inches long, 20 wide, and 27 high. 215-923-7030; wexlergallery.com.

 

Vitra

Jasper Morrison reinterprets the classic shell chair with Hal. The polypropylene seat comes in eight colors and can be paired with a choice of 10 bases. Two powdercoated versions are suitable for outdoor use, while white- and dark-oak legs lend an earthier feel. 212-463-5750; vitra.com.

 

Expormim

Who'd have imagined seesaws could stack? Ulah, designed by MUT, features high-
resistance polyester rope woven across a tubular-steel frame that's finished with a double layer of zinc paint and polyester powder. Through Jane Hamley Wells, 773-938-5279; janehamleywells.com.

 

OFM

The Net swivel chair is at home both indoors and out. A powdercoated-steel base supports a seat made of rust- and fade-resistant painted-steel mesh, available in seven colors. Greenguard certified for children and schools, Net is 23 ½ inches wide, 31 inches high, and 24 inches deep. 919-303-6389; ofminc.com.

 

Henrybuilt

The Wave bench makes a solid case for craftsmanship. It comes in four lengths: There's a 50-inch version that seats two, a 71-inch for three, a 92-inch for four, and a 113-inch for five. All measure 16 inches wide and 18 high. The bench is available in myriad wood options and can be ordered with or without an integrated tic-tac-toe board and drink holders. 212-966-5797; henrybuilt.com.